Suicide Risk
Why is suicide risk higher when a patient’s mood begins to lift?
They may now have the energy to follow through with suicidal plans.
How long does it take most antidepressants to start working?
4–8 weeks.
Define milieu therapy.
A therapeutic environment where the setting and staff aid healing.
Name one lifestyle change that can help depression.
Exercise, adequate sleep, healthy diet, mindfulness.
A patient has insomnia, low energy, and anhedonia for 2 weeks. What is the likely diagnosis?
Major Depressive Disorder.
Name two high-risk groups for suicide in depression.
Adolescents, older adults, postpartum mothers.
What should patients know about stopping antidepressants?
Never stop abruptly; taper under medical supervision.
Where does milieu therapy usually take place?
Short or long-term residential programs.
How can exercise improve depression outcomes?
Boosts mood-regulating neurotransmitters.
A patient has had low mood for 2 years with no mania. What diagnosis fits?
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia).
How should a nurse respond if a patient expresses suicidal thoughts?
Stay with the patient, assess risk, and implement safety precautions.
How can patients manage sexual dysfunction from SSRIs?
Discuss options with provider (med switch, add-ons, timing doses).
Who contributes to the healing process in milieu therapy?
The entire treatment team and the environment itself.
Why is sleep important in depression management?
Restores energy and stabilizes mood.
A postpartum mother presents with suicidal thoughts. What is the priority nursing action?
Ensure safety and initiate immediate psychiatric referral.
What developmental group often expresses suicidality through aggression?
Adolescents
What teaching point is essential for patients on MAOIs?
Avoid tyramine-rich foods to prevent hypertensive crisis.
What is the focus of milieu therapy in depression treatment?
Providing structure, support, and safe interactions.
How does mindfulness help patients with depression?
Increases awareness, reduces rumination and stress.
A patient on fluoxetine develops hyperreflexia and confusion. What should the nurse suspect?
Serotonin Syndrome.
: Why must nurses be vigilant with adolescents taking antidepressants?
Increased suicidality risk per FDA warning.
Why should nurses educate patients about “brain zaps”?
To recognize discontinuation syndrome and avoid abrupt stopping.
Why is milieu therapy especially effective for depressed patients?
It reduces isolation and promotes social engagement.
Name two non-drug treatments besides psychotherapy.
ECT, support groups, lifestyle changes.
A nurse is caring for a teen with irritability, aggression, and substance use. What should the nurse assess for?
Depression and suicidality.